Our History

Emilio M. Justo, M.D. is the Founder and Medical Director of a unique institute that today offers the top of the line technology for the most pressing vision and cosmetic needs.

Dr. Justo first opened the Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center 28 years ago. Today, he performs bladeless refractive cataract surgery using the LenSx femtosecond laser - which offers the growing number of patients with cataracts a safer and more comfortable option. He is proud to be one of a few surgeons in Arizona who use the newest laser technology.

Upper eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is also performed by Dr. Justo. Arizona Eye Institute staff works hard to help patients whose insurance often covers the medically-necessary upper lid outpatient surgery performed under local anesthesia. While the procedure regains a patient's natural eyelid structure, the surgery also can significantly improve the patient’s peripheral (side) vision and help decrease heaviness and eye fatigue.

The institute offers everything from annual eye exams and eyewear, to more serious vision care. Dr. Justo's Nursing Director is also a Certified Aesthetic Laser Nurse who also provides a variety of aesthetic services including Botox and Dysport, soft-tissue fillers, microdermabrasion, sclerotherapy for spider veins, and Obagi skin care peels and products. Permanent make up is also a popular option at the institute performed by a Certified Permanent Cosmetic Professional.

The History

Dr. Emilio Justo reflects on how the history of his practice led to its current success. Dr. Justo has practiced ophthalmology out of the Sun Cities since 1989 and provides an incredibly wide range of procedures and serves a highly diverse clientele. Dr. Justo's injectable treatments are a great addition to other cosmetic surgeries or ophthalmic treatments.

Inspiring story

Dr. Justo's story begins with birthplace near Havana, Cuba. His parents wanted a better life for their son, and were fortunate to flee Fidel Castro's communist Cuba when he was only 3 years old.

The young man did not take the new opportunity before him for granted. Relocated to Indiana, and at times raised by grandparents, he watched as his father worked two jobs and his mother study at Indiana University. Dr. Justo worked as hard as his parents, and at only 17, he graduated Valedictorian of his high school. At only 23, he graduated from the prestigious Integrated Pre-medical/Medical Program at University of Michigan, with both his B.S. and M.D. degrees.

At 28 he moved to Arizona and joined an established ophthalmologist in Sun City. Just months later, the ophthalmologist suffered serious health issues, and Dr. Justo took over the practice. It would grow and expand to the three locations today in Wickenburg, Sun City and Sun City West - drawing patients from all over Arizona, as well as nationally and even internationally.

Time with patients

During those 28 years, Dr. Justo has made it a priority to provide each patient he sees with individualized care and time. "Over the years, many people have asked me my secret for creating beautiful results and achieving excellent vision for my patients. The answer is simple.. I listen carefully and attentively. I listen to all of your desires and expectations. By doing so, I bond with each patient.”

"The best part of our work is seeing the outstanding positive benefits that either visual rehabilitation through modern cataract surgery may achieve, or the increased self- confidence and esteem from facial or body cosmetic surgery or services."